Yeah, I prefer the Dane approach as well. I pulled out my S/8 a couple days ago. Its way neck-heavy compared to Dane's because the S4 tuners are heavier. Plus I like the idea of having small tuners for the octave strings. The only problem is that you can't reverse the octave strings like you can on an S/8.
And yes Mark, the S/8 headstock is a little busy looking. It reminds me of the underside of a pregnant dog.
I'm sure someone like Ted could do a potato head conversion on an S8. You could even get walnut wings. It'd definitely be easier than mine was since mine had to be lengthened first. There are a number of benefits to having the octave string first too such as lower, more consistent action.
I agree Dane. But I don't play mine enough (yet) to warrant anything so drastic. If I was way into playing my 8 banger, I'd have an easier time justifying the mods.
Well...I guess I said the S/8 headstock looks like the underside of a pregnant dog, and that could be taken as an insult.
So sorry if I offended you Harry. As with all Ricks, they're great basses. Great tone, well-made, comfortable, reliable, etc. And many people prefer the S/8 headstock to the potatohead. It is nice that the strings can be reversed too.
It's cool, I probably overreacted. If my pictures hadn't been used I probably wouldn't have gotten upset. I read it as, "I thought my bass looked funny until I saw this one!" You can say whatever you want, just please don't use my pictures of a bass that I love to illustrate your point.
In my own life I try and stay positive, but I can be just as critical and sarcastic as anyone else. I know that you all love Rickenbackers, so carry on. I just need a break.
P.S. the "underside of a pregnant dog" remark was funny.
What I have found on this forum is, the chances are, MOST "offenses" are innocent, and really not meant to put someone down. I call it the RR factor. It helps......